November 1, 2019
Sigonella Celebrates Navy’s 244th Birthday in Style By LS2 Andrea Tucker and Janine Scianna
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The youngest and oldest Sailors in attendance cut the Navy birthday cake. U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Karl Schonberg (Released)
in action. The Sailors’ service in harm’s way ultimately led to Japan’s defeat. The service of our World War It has been a standing United States Navy tradition to commemorate its II shipmates cemented the Navy’s Oct. 13, 1775 establishment. Across the legacy: there is no higher honor than Navy and here at Sigonella, commands to serve and to do so in harm’s way. came together to formally celebrate The ball began with both the Italian the United States Navy’s birthday. and United States national anthems Naval Air Station Sigonella threw its being sung to the parade of colors. An annual Navy Birthday Ball at Villa empty table was ceremoniously set for Mirador, Oct. 25, in Zafferana Etnea. all prisoners of war and those missing This year’s theme, “No Higher in action who cannot join their fellow Honor,” memorialized the Battle service members in celebration. of Leyte Gulf during World War II. Capt. Kevin Pickard, commanding Lasting three days, it was the largest officer of Naval Air Station Sigonella, sea battle in modern history and lasted served as the guest speaker. from Oct. 23-25, with the goal to “For enabling and carrying out take back the Philippines from Japan those missions, for protecting and and secure the U.S. Navy’s hold preserving our way of life 24 hours in the Pacific theatre. While there a day, 365 days a year, I can’t thank were several lessons to learn, losses you enough,” said Pickard. “To the and defeats, the Battle of Leyte Gulf spouses, thank you for providing the had one common thread: heroism
backbone of support necessary to maintain a successful fighting force. Your efforts do not go unnoticed.” A traditional bell ringing ceremony followed, marking the start of a new watch and symbolically, the beginning of a new year for the Navy. Then, the Navy’s birthday cake was cut. According to tradition, this is done by the oldest and youngest Sailors in attendance. This year, the 244th birthday cake was cut by Lt. Cmdr. Andrew Montalvo and Masterat-Arms Seaman Branden Busby. From then on, the real celebration began, with dancing and even fireworks. From start to finish, this year’s birthday ball evoked deep appreciation for the Navy’s honorable history and a call to continue its legacy of toughness, initiative, integrity, and accountability.
